How to get the perfect spray tan glow: why prep matters?


How to Get the Perfect Spray Tan Glow: Why Prep Matters Most

A flawless spray tan starts long before your appointment. While your spray tan artist plays an important role (about 20% of it), the other 80% is on you — specifically, how you prep your skin and care for your tan afterward.

 

If you’re investing in a professional tan, a little prep goes a long way in making it last longer, look more natural, and fade evenly. Here’s exactly how to make that happen.

 

  1. It Starts with Proper Exfoliation

Exfoliating is the single most important step to getting an even, long-lasting spray tan. A washcloth won’t cut it — you need a proper exfoliating mitt that fully removes dead skin cells and product buildup.

Be sure to exfoliate 24–48 hours before your appointment, paying extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and underarms.

2. Hydrate Your Skin

Dry skin = patchy tan. In the days leading up to your spray tan:


  • Drink plenty of water
  • Moisturize daily with a clean, fragrance-free lotion
  • Avoid products with oil, which can create a barrier

Skip moisturizing the day of your tan — your skin should be completely clean and product-free when you arrive.

3. The Day of Your Spray Tan

For the best results:


  • Arrive with bare, clean skin — no lotion, deodorant, makeup, or perfume
  • Avoid sweating before and for 6 hours after your tan
  • Wear loose, dark clothing to avoid rubbing off the solution while it develops

4. Aftercare is Everything

Once your tan is applied, it’s all about keeping your skin hydrated and protected to extend the life of your glow.

Here’s how:


  • Moisturize daily, starting the day after your tan
  • Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotions
  • Switch to a gentle, sulfate-free body wash
  • Pat dry after showers — don’t rub with a towel
  • Avoid exfoliating until you’re ready to remove the tan

5. What to Reach For: Our Recommended Products

Prep Essentials:


  • Exfoliating Mitt – Available at BHB, made specifically for spray tan prep
  • Oil-Free, Gentle Body Wash – Choose something with clean ingredients and no heavy fragrances
  • Lightweight Moisturizer – Use in the days before your tan (but skip it the day of)

Aftercare Must-Haves:


  • Tan-Safe Moisturizers:
    • BHB Tallow – Ultra-nourishing, clean, and perfect for maintaining your glow
    • Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
    • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
  • Sulfate-Free Body Wash – Look for clean, simple options that won’t strip your tan
  • Water – Staying hydrated from the inside helps your skin look its best

✨ We carry all spray tan-safe prep and aftercare products in the salon. If you’d like to purchase exfoliating mitts, BHB Tallow, or ask about other product recommendations, just reach out directly to us at Bronzed Hide & Beauty — we’ve got everything you need.

 

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